Pharmacological management of adrenal disease

Abstract

Adrenal insufficiency is a life-threatening disorder that can be caused by primary adrenal failure or secondary adrenal disease due to damage of Hypothalamic Patuitary Axis. The treatment of choice is hydrocortisone. In some cases practice the mineralocorticoid fludrocortisone is also used. Adrenal gland hyperfunction is referred to as Cushing’s disease or primary aldosteronism. Medical treatment such as metyrapone, ketoconazole and mitotane can all be used to lower cortisol levels. Pasireotideis, cabergoline and mifepristone can also be used in some cases.